I learned many lessons from Star Trek: The Next Generation. I even wrote an English Composition paper about the lessons contained within Star Trek and ST: TNG during my short stint in college.

There have been many times in my life when dealing with tough situations that I have played this scene in my head, where Picard’s persistence finally shows it’s fruit – he is to be returned to the Enterprise. It reminded me to be brave, never give up and stick to my guns.

I sum up the lesson I learned from Picard like this:

Never compromise what is in your heart for temporary relief and comfort.

Back then I hadn’t accepted Jesus into my heart, but I can never deny my past. When I was barely a teenager I began my study of the deeper messages embedded in most of the Star Trek episodes, like I study passages in the Bible today. Those lessons pulled me through some tough times in my young life. I know from attending several conventions, there are millions of people out there that feel the same way.

If you ever need to feel an overwhelming sense of hope and don’t feel comfortable attending a church – go to a Star Trek convention with an open mind and let yourself feel the collective love and warmth shine through all those that attend.